By Tribune-Review

Published: Wednesday, January 23, 2013, 3:56 p.m.
Updated: Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Authorities on Wednesday accused a teacher at Hopewell Area High School in Beaver County of sexting a student and inappropriately fondling her over a nearly three-year period, according to court documents.

Joseph A. Rubino, 37, of Hopewell, who teaches science and formerly coached baseball, told investigators that in addition to sending the girl text messages of a sexual nature, she agreed to send him topless photos of herself, according to the criminal complaint.

Rubino, who is charged with nine felonies, told authorities that the inappropriate behavior began when the girl was a sophomore and continued through her senior year, according to the complaint.

The girl, now 18, reported the incident to school officials in September. Superintendent Charles Reina suspended Rubino without pay, according to the district.

Rubino was arraigned on Wednesday afternoon before District Judge Janet M. Swihart and released on a non-monetary bond. He faces a preliminary hearing before the judge on Jan. 31.

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